Benin Leverages Cultural Heritage to Boost Tourism Growth

Cléopatre Kougniazonde, a tourism consultant to the Beninese Government, says the Republic of Benin is drawing from its royal legacy and rich cultural identity to position tourism as a major driver of economic development and national healing.

Kougniazonde, who is also the Chief Executive Officer of Tourism Anew Bénin, made this known on Sunday during a cocktail event held in Cotonou, as part of a two-day familiarisation tour by the National Association of Tour Operators (NATOP) to the country.

The tour, organised by NATOP in partnership with Consortium Tourism by Millions of Benin (CTMB), Azalai Hotel, and Benin Royal Hotel, aims to deepen regional tourism cooperation and expose Nigeria-based tour operators to Benin’s emerging attractions.

Kougniazonde highlighted that Benin’s new tourism strategy rests on three key pillars: historical restoration, cultural infrastructure, and community-based tourism.

“The process is ongoing, but I believe we are at a defining stage,” she said. “We are reconnecting with our history, rediscovering our cultural identity, and building a tourism model grounded in sustainability and national pride.”

At the heart of this transformation is the revitalisation of Benin’s ancient kingdoms—especially Dahomey, renowned for its legendary female warriors, the Agodjié, who have inspired global films such as The Woman King and Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.

“These women led armies and shaped decisions centuries ago,” Kougniazonde said, noting that the government is restoring royal palaces and building a new museum in Agodjié to honour their legacy.

She also stressed the importance of confronting painful historical chapters, including Benin’s role in the transatlantic slave trade. In Ouidah, once a major slave port, the government is reconstructing the last slave ship to leave the region before abolition. Of the 423 captives aboard, only 43 men survived the journey—no women or children lived.

Kougniazonde said the symbolic “Point of Return” in Ouidah, formerly known as the “Point of No Return,” has become a site of reflection and pilgrimage.

Also speaking at the event, Dr. Olanma Ojukwu, Co-founder of God’s Own Travel Agency (GOTA), praised Benin’s strategy of using culture and history to market itself to the world.

“What we’re doing in Africa, especially West Africa, is reviving our culture and showcasing our traditional strength,” she said.

She cited Vodun Days, a cultural festival that has evolved from a one-day event into a week-long celebration of Benin’s spiritual and artistic heritage. “People often misunderstand Vodun. But what you see during Vodun Days is a celebration of resilience, artistry, and the spirit of our ancestors,” Ojukwu explained.

Other must-see attractions in Benin highlighted during the tour include:

• The Sacred Forest and Python Temple in Ouidah

• The Slave Route leading to the Point of Return

• Ganvié, Africa’s largest lake village, known as the Venice of Africa

• Pendjari National Park, home to West Africa’s safari experience

Ganvié, built entirely on stilts, offers visitors a glimpse into life on water—an enduring testament to the ingenuity of its people.

With continued investment and regional collaboration, stakeholders say Benin is poised to become one of West Africa’s most compelling cultural and historical destinations.